NamX, the Afro-European startup, is set to introduce its groundbreaking Hydrogen Utility Vehicle (HUV) at the esteemed Goodwood Festival of Speed. While the spotlight may be on the HUV’s sleek design and performance, the true game-changer lies in NamX’s innovative hydrogen distribution system – CapXtores.
CapXtores aren’t just your ordinary refueling stations; they mark a significant leap forward in hydrogen distribution. Taking inspiration from Gogoro’s battery-swapping stations, CapXtores will provide a seamless and convenient method for refueling NamX’s HUV fleet. These stations will be strategically placed across Europe, making hydrogen replenishment hassle-free for drivers.
CapX Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of CapXs | 6 |
| Functionality | Secondary Hydrogen Tanks |
| Location | Rear of the Car |
| Hydrogen Capacity per CapX | 500 grams (1.1 lb) |
| Total Hydrogen Capacity | 3 kg (6.6 lb) |
| Range Extension per CapX | 50 km (31.1 mi) |
| Total Range Extension | 300 km (186 mi) |
| Storage | Under a Glass Cover |
| Safety | Stored Below Back Door and Over Rear Bumper |
Note: Each CapX serves as a secondary hydrogen tank, providing an additional 50 km (31.1 mi) of range to the NamX HUV. With six CapXs onboard, the total range extension amounts to 300 km (186 mi). These CapXs are stored under a glass cover, located below the back door and over the rear bumper, enhancing the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal while ensuring efficient hydrogen storage
Hydrogen Distribution
Unlike traditional refueling stations, CapXtores offer flexibility in hydrogen replenishment. Hydrogen capsules, similar to Gogoro’s battery packs, can be recharged at CapXtores, swapped at designated shops, or conveniently delivered to customers’ doorsteps. This innovative approach eliminates the challenges associated with traditional refueling infrastructure, paving the way for wider adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Range and Performance
Central to NamX’s hydrogen strategy is the impressive performance and range of the HUV. With six hydrogen capsules onboard, the HUV boasts an extraordinary range of 700 to 800 kilometers, setting a new standard for long-distance travel in hydrogen vehicles. Each capsule contributes approximately 150 kilometers of driving range, ensuring exceptional endurance on the road.
| Feature | Base Model (GT) | Upgraded Model (GTH) |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Train | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 500 hp |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h (124 mph) | 250 km/h (155 mph) |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 6.5 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Driving Range | 700-800 km (435-497 miles) | 700-800 km (435-497 miles) |
| Hydrogen Capacity | 5 kg (11 lbs) | 5 kg (11 lbs) |
| Capsules | Six | Six |
| Capsule Capacity | 150 km (93 miles) per capsule | 150 km (93 miles) per capsule |
| Refueling Options | CapXtores, Swapping, Delivery | CapXtores, Swapping, Delivery |
| Design | Sleek and Stylish | Sleek and Stylish |
| Manufacturer | NamX | NamX |
| Design Partner | Pininfarina | Pininfarina |
| Price | €65,000 ($70,733) | €95,000 ($103,379) |
Beyond its performance, the HUV embodies NamX’s commitment to sustainability. Designed by Pininfarina, the HUV not only offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional SUVs but also serves as a visual testament to innovation and style. With its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, the HUV represents a significant step towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Car Delivery:
Initially slated for delivery in Q4 2025, NamX has revised its delivery timeline to Q1 2026. While this adjustment represents a slight delay, it underscores NamX’s commitment to ensuring that each vehicle meets the highest standards of quality and performance before reaching customers’ hands. NamX aims to deliver an exceptional experience to its customers, from the moment they place their pre-orders to the day they receive their HUVs.
Customers who have already placed pre-orders for the HUV can expect timely updates from NamX regarding their delivery status. Additionally, NamX is taking €1,000 deposits ($1,088 at the current exchange rate) for pre-orders on its website, with a nominal 15% of the processing fee retained to secure the reservation. As the delivery date approaches, customers can anticipate further communication from NamX regarding logistics and delivery arrangements. They are not fully refundable.
While NamX’s vision for hydrogen-powered transportation is promising, challenges remain on the path to widespread adoption. Concerns surrounding infrastructure, manufacturing scalability, and operational logistics must be addressed to fully realize the potential of hydrogen as a viable alternative to lithium-powered vehicles. However, with NamX’s ambitious plans and strategic partnerships, the future of hydrogen mobility looks brighter than ever.
As NamX prepares to unveil its HUV and CapXtores at Goodwood, the automotive industry stands on the cusp of a transformative shift toward sustainable mobility. With innovative solutions like CapXtores and the HUV, NamX is poised to lead the charge toward a cleaner, greener future. While challenges lie ahead, the promise of hydrogen-powered transportation offers hope for a world where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.
NamX’s bold vision for hydrogen mobility represents not only a technological breakthrough but also a testament to human ingenuity and determination. As we look towards the future, one thing is clear: the journey towards sustainable transportation has only just begun, and NamX is leading the way.
